Much like Dr. Jeykll and Mr. Hyde, the Chevrolet Chevelle is handsome but has a mean streak. It has clean lines, a near-perfect three-box design, and is nearly as roomy as the larger Chevy Impala. But it could also be outfitted with thirsty and loud V-8 power, making it a serous street machine and a perennial favorite in the muscle car world.

There were five body styles for the initial 1964 Chevrolet Chevelle, including the Series 300 sedan, Series 300 wagon, the Malibu coupe, and the Malibu convertible. The El Camino, which had been absent from the Chevy lineup for four years, returned as a utility variant of the Chevelle.

There were several engines originally offered in 1964, starting with a pair of straight sixes. The base 194 cid six made 120 hp, and the 230 cid version made 155. Small-block V-8 engines of either 283 or 327 cid were also offered. Transmission was either a two-speed or three speed automatic, or an available four-speed floor-mounted manual.

The SS was the range-topping and most desirable version of the Chevelle. Available on the coupe and convertible, it included vinyl interior, front bucket seats, center console, and exterior molding was removed for a cleaner look. Some models also included a heavy-duty rear suspension.

More than 387,000 examples of the Chevelle were built for the 1964 model year. Of that, 76,860 were made as SS variants…originally. Expect there to be many more vehicles wearing the SS badging than were originally produced.